Entering the forecourt, which features splendid climber rose-trees and a majestic alley of 16 orange trees, the visitor discovers the Building of the Domes, which previously contained the Royal stables and the silk raising yard. Silk raising was introduced in France by Catherine de Médicis. The visitor then enters the courtyard of the 16th century farm, and lastly the Flower Garden, where countless flowers for cutting are exclusively produced. These flowers are earmarked for the floral decoration of the Monument, the Building of the Domes, and the Orangerie.

The Garden of Catherine de Médicis is lined on the east with a sloping bed delimiting the moats, which are filled by the waters of the Cher River.

The gardens of the north side are lined by ivy hanging on a wooden trellis.